Dortmund appears to be eyeing Torino midfielder Nikola Vlasic as a potential replacement for Julian Brandt, who is expected to depart at the complete of the season. The 28-year-old Croatian international has impressed in Serie A, and several clubs are reportedly monitoring his situation, including Eintracht Frankfurt, and Roma.
Brandt, who joined Borussia Dortmund from Bayer Leverkusen in 2019 for a reported €25 million, has been a consistent performer for the Black and Yellow, participating in 125 goals (56 goals and 69 assists) in 300 official appearances. However, his performances have drawn criticism from some fans, particularly regarding his consistency and defensive work rate. The club and player are reportedly set to part ways after seven years.
Vlasic, currently a key figure for Torino, has become a vital player in their fight to avoid relegation. He’s even taken on a leadership role, serving as vice-captain for the Granata. This season, Vlasic has eight goals and five assists in 33 competitive matches, demonstrating a level of performance that has attracted attention from across Europe. He’s proven capable of playing in a central attacking role, as a second striker, or on the left wing – a versatile profile that mirrors Brandt’s.
The interest from Borussia Dortmund comes as no surprise, given Niko Kovac’s reported admiration for the player. According to reports from Tuttosport, the BVB manager is a “big fan” of Vlasic, potentially influencing the club’s pursuit. Kovac’s familiarity with Vlasic could be a significant factor in any potential transfer negotiations.
However, securing Vlasic won’t be straightforward. While his current contract with Torino runs until 2027, the club reportedly has an option to automatically extend it to 2028. Torino recognizes Vlasic’s importance, as evidenced by his vice-captaincy and consistent starting role, and will likely demand a substantial fee for his services. The club is currently battling to maintain its Serie A status, sitting six points above the relegation zone, and Vlasic is considered crucial to their survival hopes alongside Giovanni Simeone.
Vlasic’s career path has been somewhat circuitous. After starting his youth career with Hajduk Split, he moved to Everton in 2017 but struggled to establish himself in the Premier League. A loan spell at CSKA Moscow proved more fruitful, leading to a permanent transfer in 2019. He enjoyed a successful stint in Russia, contributing to 54 goals (33 goals and 21 assists) in 108 appearances before a move to West Ham United in 2021. His time in London was less impactful, prompting a loan return to Torino, which eventually became a permanent deal in 2023 for around €11 million.
The interest isn’t limited to Germany. Roma, managed by Gian Piero Gasperini, is likewise reportedly keen on Vlasic, according to Tuttosport. However, Gasperini’s future at the club is uncertain, potentially complicating any move for the Croatian midfielder. Eintracht Frankfurt, also of the Bundesliga, is another club monitoring the situation.
For Vlasic, a move to a club like Borussia Dortmund would represent a significant step up, offering Champions League football and the chance to showcase his talents on a larger stage. His current form suggests he’s ready for that challenge, and the potential arrival of a manager who clearly admires his abilities could be a compelling factor.
Borussia Dortmund will require to act decisively if they are serious about securing Vlasic’s signature, navigating both Torino’s potential reluctance to sell and competition from other interested clubs. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the Croatian midfielder will be Brandt’s successor at Signal Iduna Park.
Next up for Vlasic and Torino is a crucial Serie A match against Cagliari on March 30th, as they continue their fight to avoid relegation. Borussia Dortmund, meanwhile, will face Bayer Leverkusen on March 31st in a Bundesliga clash with significant title implications.
